Beauty and the Beast, the Dover Operatic and Dramatic Society’s annual pantomime, has started its run at Dover Town Hall.

The 30-strong cast of talented youngsters have been working hard to perfect their show which starts today (Wednesday).

People can see it up until Saturday, January 16.

DODS

Jasmine Cox, 19, a former Dover Grammar School for Girls student and Caragh Deery, 16, are the producers and have been organising the show.

“The adaptation of the original Beauty and the Beast film will have an unusual twist which is different from the classic tale everyone will remember,” Miss Cox said.

It has some new characters, such as Bonnie, evil King Jasper and crazy Doctor Tootle.

Kayleigh Stevens-Keatley, who plays Bonnie in the production, said: “It has been an amazing opportunity to play Bonnie in my first ever panto.

“DODS has made it such a lovely experience and I can’t wait to do more with them.”

After another actor dropped out, Ryan Simpson, 13, stepped in and has had to learn a new script and choreography in three weeks.

He said: “This an amazing opportunity for me.

“ I am working with such a big group of talented people.”

All performances start at 7.15pm apart from the Saturday matinee on January 16 at 2.30pm.

Ticket prices are between £7 to £9 for individuals or £24 to £32 for families.

To book, call: 07815452871 or visit www.dods.org.uk.

See the picture special in tomorrow's Dover Mercury.